Don’t whine about bad teeth - try chewing gum instead

A study* by Johannes Gutenberg University, Germany, published in the Science Journal Nutrition Research reveals that white wine rather than red wine is more likely to rot your teeth if frequently consumed.

According to the report, white wine erodes the calcium layer on teeth more quickly than red wine and brushing teeth too soon after drinking causes further damage as teeth have already been softened by acids.

Dr. Nigel Carter from the British Dental Health Foundation supports the results found in this study: “Eating and drinking naturally weakens the enamel on your teeth, and brushing straight afterwards can cause tiny particles of enamel to be brushed away. Chewing sugarfree gum produces more saliva in the mouth, which helps to stop acid attacks immediately after eating or drinking.”

The British Dental Health Foundation gives the following advice, allowing you to continue to enjoy the occasional glass of white wine whilst ensuring your pearly whites remain in perfect condition:

- Choose your toothpaste wisely - Always make sure your toothpaste contains fluoride to help to strengthen and protect the teeth

- Use a new toothbrush - Replace your toothbrush every three months or sooner if the tufts have become worn or splayed

- Chew sugarfree gum with Xylitol – Chewing sugarfree gum such as Orbit Complete helps stop acid attacks, helping to rebuild tooth enamel and strengthen teeth and gums, as well as freshening breath

- Make a dentist appointment – Regular dentist visits ensure that teeth are kept in the best condition possible

- Floss and use mouthwash - To clean the areas that your brush may not be able to reach, dental floss and special brushes ensure that teeth are thoroughly cleaned. Using mouthwash can also help to freshen breath and kill bacteria

*The scientists at Johannes Gutenberg University in Mainz, Germany, looked at the effects of eight red and white wines from Germany, France, Italy and Spain on the enamel of teeth removed from men and women aged 40 to 65. The teeth were soaked in wines for up to 24 hours, revealing that those soaked in whites had more damage than those left overnight in red wines.